Kids' riding lessons

Kids' private lessons allow for one-on-one tuition and are an excellent way to focus on acquiring or improving riding skill. Kids' private lessons are held in one of the Centre’s arenas and run for half an hour (including mounting, dismounting, warming up and cooling down time). You can choose a specific coach (see Papillon coaches) or choose a time that suits you and we will match you with an available coach. Private lessons can cover the basics (getting on, getting off, sitting on a horse, walking, steering, rising trot, changing direction, cantering) or they can be used to refine existing skills and to work on more advanced movements.

Pony Leads

These are suitable for children who are quite young or who do not have enough experience to ride on their own. Children are led by a Papillon staff member, either around the Centre (15 mins) or, depending on the weather and park closures, across to Centennial Park and back (30 mins).

Pony leads can be shared by more than one child (depending on their size) ie: A 15 min pony lead could be shared by two children, each taking a turn at riding. A 30 min pony lead could be shared by two or three children. The price remains the same, even if children share. In our experience, a 15 minute pony lead is best suited to very young children – say 2-5 years, while the longer 30 minute session suits older children.

Pony Parties

Why not have your next childrens' party in the beautiful surrounds of Centennial Park, in one of their many picnic areas or playgrounds? You can make your party even more special for littlies by inviting a pony or two! Papillon will bring our ponies to you (to the horse track nearest to your party), together with helmets, so that your young partygoers can have an unforgettable experience of riding a pony in Centennial Park. Contact us for more details or to make a booking.

Junior Riding Camps

These popular three-day camps are suitable for young children (six years and older) or for those who would like an introduction to horses and riding. Camps run Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 9am to 4pm. Each day involves a group riding lesson, a ride to Centennial Park (weather permitting), lessons in grooming, tacking up and general care of the horse, as well as horse handling tips. When not working with the horses, participants can spend time on horse quizes, colouring in or reading one of our many horse books. All participants receive a Camp Workbook containing information about what they're learning over the three days, as well as horse-related games and puzzles. Lots of fun for littlies! Camps are held in school holidays - contact Papillon for the next available dates.

Riding Workouts

These three-day Workouts are for riders who are confident at the walk and trot and who have started, or are ready to start, canter work. They suit riders who are riding regularly - at least once a week or fortnight. Over the course of each three-day Workout, a Papillon coach will take riders through a series of games and exercises to expand and consolidate ability and confidence. All participants receive a Workout workbook covering what they're learning over the three days. As Workouts are for more established riders, anyone not a current Papillon client who wishes to enrol will be given a free 20 minute riding assessment prior to booking, to ensure they have the skills to participate fully in the Workout. Workouts are held on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 10am to 3pm during school holidays - contact Papillon for the next available dates.

Private Camps

Private Riding Camps follow the same format as the 3 day camps for children from 6 years up. You can organise your own group of up to 6 children, book and pay at least 21 days prior and make big savings on the regular price. Advance bookings can be made for the July, September/October or Christmas holidays. Payments, once made, are not refundable.

Evy T-Shirts (with photo)

We now have Evy T-shirts in sizes 2, 4 and 6 for $35 each. Have a momento of your child’s ride on Evy or consider a T-shirt and pony ride as your next present for a grandchild, niece or nephew. The T-shirts are high quality and very cute!

Free Colouring Book

Download this free horse-related Colouring Book which kids will love - or pick up a hard copy on your next visit to the Stables.